Each year the University of Kentucky Explosives Research Team participates in numerous blast mitigation and explosive usage optimization studies. 

The blast mitigation studies include structures to resist underground methane and coal dust explosions for mining applications as well as resistance to open-air blasts for commercial applications in close proximity to potential terrorist targets. The Georgetown Laboratory is an optimum location for performing much of this research.

See photos below of University of Kentucky Explosives Research Team (UKERT) Georgetown Lab.  This lab performs multiple blast mitigation and explosive study projects each year:

One of the ventilation projects currently underway includes incorporating a dust scrubber into the design of a longwall shearer. 

By collaborating with engineers at Joy Global, the research staff at NIOSH, and mine management, our team is taking an idea from conceptual development, to CFD modeling, and finally to full-scale prototyping of a 56’ long shearer.  CFD modeling of the concept indicates dust capture efficiency as high as 90% at the leading drum, which will lead to a healthier and more productive working environment at the mine. The project is led by Dr. Wedding.

Current ground control research includes correlating surface mining highwall movement to ground vibrations generated from blasting.

At what levels of vibration are the highwalls experiencing disturbance/damage?  We are solving this problem using state of the art equipment, analysis tools, and modeling to help mines identify potentially damaging blast designs which may lead to highwall instability.